PUTNAM COUNTY, Fla. – Baylee Holbrook, a 16-year-old who was struck by lightning while hunting with her father in Putnam County, died Thursday morning. Holbrook had been in the hospital since Tuesday afternoon in critical condition.
Emotions were high Thursday night as friends and loved ones were processing the death of Baylee Faith Holbrook.
Over 100 people came out to a private vigil to pray for the Holbrook family following her death. A family spokesperson said prayer and faith are two things that have been getting the Palatka community by the past few days.
“Heartbreaking, horrible nightmare,” friend Olivia Wilkinson said. “Her dad walked out, like my other dad, walked out, told us and it was horrible. It was silent. We started crying. People were hitting the floor praying.”
Willie McKinnon, the family’s spokesperson and pastor, said to help the community start the healing process they held a prayer vigil.
“For myself, it’s been a, it’s just been a shock,” McKinnon said.
Holbrook fought for her life until the end after the 16-year-old student and her father were struck by lightning while they were hunting deer together Tuesday afternoon. Officials said lightning glanced off a tree before hitting them.
After they were struck, her father awoke after losing consciousness and discovered his daughter was not breathing. He called 911 and began CPR. Rescue personnel took Holbrook to the HCA Florida Putnam Hospital.
While she lay in the hospital, the community rallied. Now that same community is mourning her death.
McKinnon said it’s going to take time to process the teen’s death but knowing she left this earth being strong in her faith makes it a little easier. He said even though she won’t be here anymore she’ll still live on in others.
“Her dad and her mom had a real heart-to-heart conversation and they decided to allow them to use some of her organs for other kids to give them a life,” McKinnon said.
McKinnon said that Baylee’s organs being used in others is another example of how the teen is continuing to serve God.
Her friends are asking everyone to keep praying from Baylee’s mom, dad and sister.
Baylee’s father Matt is recovering and expected to be OK.